Continuous Improvement Specialist Position Available In Rutherford, Tennessee

Continuous Improvement Specialist Thompson Machinery dental insurance, life insurance, paid time off, paid holidays, tuition reimbursement, 401(k), profit sharing United States, Tennessee, La Vergne Jun 16, 2025 Continuous Improvement Specialist

ABOUT US

Looking for more than just a job? At Thompson Machinery, we’ve been powering progress since 1944. We are the go-to Caterpillar dealer for Middle and West Tennessee and North Mississippi. Come join a team where our mission is simple: deliver smart solutions, build lasting partnerships, strengthen the communities we call home and invest in your growth.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

The Continuous Improvement Specialist is a highly competent process manager responsible for using Lean Six Sigma principles to drive continuous improvement initiatives and operational excellence throughout the dealership. This role serves teams as an analyst, facilitator, coach, trainer, and project manager and is involved in planning, scheduling, and implementing continuous improvement activities.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Clearly defining program objectives and scope
Evaluating and prioritizing potential improvements based on gains and required effort
Securing employee commitment (ex: process managers) for proactive change management
Establishing a clear and well-articulated implementation plan
Appropriately implementing principles of governance
Identifying intervention priorities and indicators
Conducting detailed analysis of the current situation that accurately describes the issues
Specifying deliverables, outcome indicators, and performance-measured indicators
Identifying available resources (for example, people, material, and finances)
Mapping out in detail the desired situation
Accurately analyzing options including impact and feasibility
Specifying obstacles and ways to overcome them through continuous improvement
Regularly monitoring the implementation of solutions to achieve objectives and expected benefits
Identify opportunities for process improvement, waste removal, and cost reduction
Analyze data and use value stream mapping to vision and transform current processes and procedures towards a new future state
Lead the planning and execution of Kaizens and other Lean transformation initiatives focused on safely eliminating waste, stabilizing processes, and improving quality and productivity
Build cross-functional relationships within the value stream to build trust and gain the privilege of challenging the current state
Teach, lead, and coach cross-functional teams on Lean Six Sigma tools and methodology
Serve as a champion for change by influencing and guiding teams to better understanding and adoption of lean principles and Plan-Do-Check-Act methodology, ultimately fostering a culture of change and servant leadership

WHAT WE EXPECT OF YOU

We all have different backgrounds, yet we all use our unique contributions to provide the highest quality of service.

Basic Qualifications:

Associate’s or Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Engineering or a related discipline
Strong communication, facilitation, and project management skills with the ability to speak effectively with various audiences
3-5 years of experience in practicing LEAN methodologies
Strong demonstrated project management experience
Experience with heavy machinery/equipment within a service-focused operation preferred
Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is a plus
Microsoft Power Platform (Power Automate and Power Apps) preferred

Hard Skills:

Continuous Improvement
6S
Lean Six Sigma
Root Cause Analysis
Value Stream Mapping
Proficiency in commonly used and specialized software
Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Suite, including advanced skills with Excel
Demonstrated ability to work in high paced and changing environments

WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU

At Thompson Machinery, we believe that great benefits are more than just perks- they’re essential for employee well-being and success. We’ve designed a benefits package that goes beyond the ordinary, ensuring that our team members thrive both personally and professionally. Here’s an overview of our benefits, including some that set us apart from our competitors.
The Basics Various medical plan options, including a no-cost option
Vision and dental insurance
Employer-paid short-term and long-term disability insurance
Employer-paid basic life insurance
401k matching
Profit Sharing
8 paid holidays annually
Initially up to 15 days of Paid Time Off annually with increase after five years of service
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) What Sets Us Apart Competitive pay
Exposure to world-class CAT training and development
Tuition Reimbursement
Tool Purchase Assistance to buy high-quality tools at deep discounts
Annual stipend toward the purchase of work boots
Company Incentive Bonus Program
Paid Veteran holiday annually to all service members
Training and Development programs
Work uniforms and professional cleaning services
Financial Wellness programs Thompson Machinery offers competitive salaries and a complete benefits package. Compensation for this position will be commensurate with the candidate’s experience and background. Thompson Machinery is an equal opportunity employer: Minorities/Women/Veterans/Disabled. Apply Now Listing is current as of Jun 16, 2025 08:44 AM